Johnathan Brewer
Tell us about you:
I am an Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Soldier, essentially Active Duty, with the Illinois Army National Guard. I have almost 28 years of service with 22 years active. I am a lifelong learner who believes in giving back. I have a bachelor’s degree in management, a Graduate certificate in
Leadership and Workforce development, and will have a master’s in management focused on Organizational Leadership in December. I plan to pursue a doctorate immediately following. I have two amazing kids who make me want to be better. To do so, I volunteer with the Ruckhouse because I love the mission and vision, and as faculty staff for the National Society of Leadership and Success AMU Chapter, and as a Regional Awards VP for my regimental association chapter. When I do have free time, I usually ruck with my Bernie doodle Rye.
Where are you from?
I live in Springfield, IL. Thankfully, it’s essentially home for me since it's close to where I grew up.
How did you get into rucking?
I got into rucking due to my bud, Ted Stoops, who seemed to get me into the craziest stuff. My first was a GoRuck Tough event, after three Tough Mudders. (They are not even comparable!)
Why do you ruck?
I ruck to maintain balance in myself. I am extremely busy, but when I ruck, it's my time. Finding this time is a luxury! While it does come at the price of my sleep, rucking provides ample time for reflection, realizations, and catching up on some good music or books.
Favorite ruck so far?
The toughest ruck would have to be my first July 4th, GoRuck Tough in Chicago. This 14-hour event covered only 21ish miles, but the journey and experience made it tough to beat.
What has been the hardest lesson you’ve learned under a ruck?
The hardest lesson I learned under a ruck was that this is all on me! No one can push me harder than myself. I am my own motivation, and while others may provide momentary support, I just need to keep moving forward!
What is your go-to ruck setup?
My preferred setup is a GO RUCK GR1 or their ruck plate carrier with 35-45 lb. plates, a pair of MachV-1 High speed boots with the toe and heel support stripped, and a breathable hoodie or jacket in colder weather, or shorts and T-shirt in nicer weather. Generally, the softest, most durable, and breathable material I have.
What is your advice for new ruckers?
I highly recommend starting with a lightweight load and gradually building up to a sustainable weight and logging your workouts. Record what you liked and didn’t like, and prep for the longer rucks. Create measures of performance and effectiveness to set benchmarks and reassess your training and goals. Try your snacks, hydration, and fuel before a major event to determine how much is enough and when to consume them and see what your body likes under load. Plan your routes with safety and rest points in mind. Most importantly, you need to keep your feet fresh and dry at all times. Failing to do so will create a bad experience. Additionally, pack and dress in layers to protect you while you ruck. You only need a small amount of water, so plan or look for refill points. Learning what you need helps keep a consistent pack weight. Furthermore, keep moving in good posture with your well-packed ruck. Ensure the weight sits higher and centered on your upper back. Ensure it doesn’t bounce, as it only creates hotspots or injuries. Lastly, ask for help if you need it!
What event are you training for next?
Besides the routine 20Ks, I am preparing for the NROF 100K and the RESUL 160+K rucks in May.
What is a fun fact about you outside of rucking?
When I am free from school, work, or volunteering, I look forward to spending time with the kids when I can get them together, along with my pup, Rye. Each keeps me entertained and never leaves me with a dull moment. It's hard to believe that Tru is about to be twenty-one and JC is seventeen. Additionally, I love a good, neat bourbon. I enjoy the history, the journey of finding random bottles, building relationships and networking over the experience.
JONATHAN BREWER - ILLINOIS, USA